Summer is definitely a time for berries. And how to be the one who still loves sweets? Even now, connoisseurs want something more or less useful, light, but still sweet. Do such delicacies even exist? It turns out, yes! The poetess Sappho enjoyed this delicacy in her spare time, for Aristotle it was a source of energy and inspiration for writing speeches, and Hippocrates used the delicacy for healing. Do you know what we are talking about? It’s all about the marshmallow we’ve known since childhood
The history of marshmallows is full of mysteries and strange discoveries, learning about which you can change your view of these sweets. No matter what, strange stories are always tastier, especially if they are mysterious.
About the homeland Where is the real homeland of marshmallows? Ancient Greece, Asia, France? History does not say who first invented these delicious and healthy sweets. Let’s focus on the fact that the recipe for a delicate dessert has been known since ancient times, and it has survived almost historically. One thing is known: our ancestors also tasted marshmallows. It would be interesting to look at his great-grandmother, who once tasted strange sweets as a little girl on a holiday, or at her grandfather, who treated his bride to them. Ask what marshmallows were like in their youth. Even if you don’t learn anything new about the product, you will definitely spread the knowledge of your own family history.
Those who call marshmallows a «divine» delicacy are almost mistaken about the name. Do not rush to smile skeptically. There is a legend that connects these sweets with ancient Greece: in ancient Greek mythology, Zephyr is the god of strong winds. And although the tender dessert is not associated with a storm or strong gusts of wind, it turns out that there is something «divine» in it. At least for sweet tooth.
About the properties Another legend says that marshmallows in ancient Rome were known to doctors. For example, Soran of Ephesus, who translated into Latin the medical treatises of Hippocrates. At the same time, the world learned that the famous healer, who went down in history as the father of medicine, described a «medical prescription». It turned out that Hippocrates advised marshmallows to postoperative patients to restore physical and mental strength.
About the recipe Marshmallow also has Slavic «relatives» – a lozenge that was once made by our ancestors. There are mentions that in the 14th century it was made from Antonovka apples and ordinary honey, and later they began to add egg white «for beauty» – they wanted to get rid of the color of rust, which arose due to the oxidation of apples. Much later, in the 19th century, sugar was added to the lozenge instead of honey. But the final step in creating the dessert was made by French chefs, who added the beaten egg white simply to the apple puree. In fact, this sequence has become a recipe for classic marshmallows.
About the quality Apples, sugar, beaten egg white – the main ingredients in the production of marshmallows, but today in its manufacture is more important production technology. Both high-quality raw materials and modern equipment are needed for mass production. Apple puree, from which the finished product is made, should be saturated with pectin and dry matter, and the process of beating the mixture – longer and more thorough.
About production The process begins with the production of apple puree, which is then mixed with egg whites. All components are combined in stages, in the process of beating give the opportunity to saturate the mixture with oxygen – the lid of the mixer is slightly opened. Also at home, housewives add agar-agar – a natural mixture of polysaccharides. Finish the process by adding hot syrup. Then the finished product is dried, if desired, add icing or chocolate. Many factories in Ukraine produce marshmallows, but this product can be prepared at home or bought in cafes that also prepare it themselves.
From the editors So why are we talking about that? Fresh or home-made marshmallows are incredibly delicious, and now you know everything about it. Well, almost everything remains to be tasted. Give yourself and your loved ones a pleasure: say kind words and treat yourself to a treat. And then the delicacy will definitely have a healing effect!
